Intelligent network (IN), designed originally by Telcordia Technologies, is a service-independent telecommunications network, in which service logic is separated from switching equipment, allowing new services to be added without having to redesign switches to support new services. IN enables the network operator to develop, control and introduce services more efficiently.

The Advanced Intelligent Network (AIN) is recognized as an industry standard in North America, replacing the legacy IN. AIN has three key components:

• Signal Control Points (SCP): Computers with databases containing customer specific information used by the network to route calls in stored.
• Signal Switching Points (SSP): Digital telephone switches which talk to SCP and request them for customer specific instructions as to how the call should be completed.
• Signal Transfer Points (STP): Packet switches that shuttle messages between SSP and SCPs.

The typical working flow of AIN systems:

• A telephone caller dials a number that is received by a switch at the telephone company central office.
• The switch - known as the Service Switching Point (SSP) - forwards the call over a Signaling System 7 (SS7) network to a Service Control Point (SCP) where the service logic is located.
• The Service Control Point identifies the service requested from part of the number that was dialed and returns information about how to handle the call to the Service Switching Point. Examples of services that the SCP might provide include area number calling service, disaster recovery service, do not disturb service, and 5-digit extension dialing service.
• In some cases, the call can be handled more quickly by an Intelligent Peripheral (IP) that is attached to the Service Switching Point over a high-speed connection. For example, a customized voice announcement can be delivered in response to the dialed number or a voice call can be analyzed and recognized.

In addition, an "adjunct" facility can be added directly to the Service Switching Point for high-speed connection to additional, undefined services.

Intelligent Network (IN) and Advanced Intelligent Network (AIN)

Related Terms: Signal Control Points (SCP), Signal Switching Points (SSP), Signal Transfer Points (STP), SS7